Williamson County Commissioner Lisa Birkman announced April 28 she would not seek a fourth term as Precinct 1 commissioner in 2016.

Birkman, who was first elected in 2004, said she has achieved the goals she established when she was elected with the help of the community. Precinct 1 includes portions of Round Rock and Northwest Austin.

"One of [my goals], was to reduce traffic congestion, and I think we've made really good headway in my precinct and the county," she said, referring to the O'Conner Drive extension completed in 2014 and the beginning of the second phase of construction to expand RM 620.

Since being elected, Birkman has seen the county increase in population by about 60 percent, she said.

Birkman said she has spent her time in office advocating for those in need, such as crime victims, foster children and the county's low-income population.

"I plan to continue to work to better our county with strong conservative leadership for the next twenty months of my current term," she said in a statement. "Additionally, I hope to pursue other leadership opportunities in our great county in the future."

Although she said she was not ready to announce her future plans, Birkman said she wanted to give county voters time to vet candidates to replace her on Commissioners Court.

"I hope it's someone who is a public servant," she said. "I've found in my time and the advice I give to people is always listen to the public. You might think you know what the right answer is and how to go. [But] I've found that there are other view points and other ways to see something, and it's not unusual for those in the community to help shape my decision. Don't make decisions too early. Always be willing to hear the other voices in the community and what they have to say."